On the first day of the PgCert in Academic Practice in Art, Design and Communication at UAL, after the induction day, I felt surreal. I was a student again, but this time in a vastly different setting. Balancing my full-time work at LCF and part-time study (I feel like full-time too) which of course felt equally demanding, presented a very unique challenge.
I have mixed emotions at the beginning of the class. Teaching has always held a special place in my heart even after I transitioned to another industry. My teaching experience spanned across four universities both in Malaysia and the UK, and reigniting that passion brought immense joy, I enjoy talking and interacting with students. However, a deep sense of nervousness accompanied this excitement.
Just before the recent Christmas break in 2023, I suffered a devastating loss. A close colleague, someone who sat next to me for nearly four years and offered unwavering support, had passed away. He enthusiastically encouraged me to enrol in the PGCert, believing it would open doors for me to teach again at UAL. Sharing the news of my successful application and telling him that I am going to have my PGCert induction in the upcoming December filled him with joy. He even assured me he’d readily cover my workload when I have classes and tutorials. Unfortunately, that conversation proved to be our last. His passing right before my studies began left a big void.
While his passing was difficult, I believe his spirit would want me to keep going with my studies. Initially, it was challenging to balance my increased responsibilities with my studies, but with the support of those around me, I hope to successfully complete the course and become a member of the Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy.
It is becoming increasingly apparent that I require to improve my IT skills!
Yes, it needs a lot of practise to familiar with the IT skills but eventually we will get use of it.